In addition, he released two interesting projects this year: Summer Number 17, an album of new recordings that honors the music that influenced him, as well as The RCA Albums Collection, which compiles his full discography for the label — 21 albums in all.

In this video interview with CMT.com managing editor Calvin Gilbert, Milsap admits he didn’t have to struggle or starve to make it in Nashville. But everything that came before his arrival in Music City is fascinating — from getting kicked out of his school’s music program to earning an early endorsement from the one and only Ray Charles. A Grand Ole Opry member since 1976, Milsap also explains how he found his footing in R&B and soul music before crossing over to country.

Milsap will begin a three-year farewell tour at the Country Music Hall of Fame in Nashville on Nov. 29. Take a look at this exclusive interview with the country legend, taped a few days prior to his formal induction to the hallowed Hall.